Uruguay Launches SUA, the First Airline in Latin America to Operate Airbus A220
The introduction of SUA comes at a time when Latin American aviation is experiencing steady growth, driven by an increasing demand for regional connectivity and the recovery of international travel. By leveraging the Airbus A220-300, a modern and fuel-efficient aircraft, SUA aims to offer competitive operations while supporting the development of Uruguay as a key aviation hub
A year ago, the Government of Uruguay disclosed plans to establish a national passenger airline. On January 28, 2024, during the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) in Spain, Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación (SUA) was officially unveiled. The new airline aims to become a regional leader in the competitive Latin American market.
After months of silence, SUA announced an event scheduled for January 28, 2025, at Carrasco International Airport in Montevideo. During the event, the airline will reveal operational details, the commencement of operations, and the Airbus A220-300 aircraft model chosen to launch its services.
Fleet and Business Model
SUA will operate Airbus A220-300 aircraft under a wet-leasing agreement with airBaltic, marking two regional firsts: SUA will be the first airline in Latin America and the Caribbean to use this model, and airBaltic’s ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) business model will debut in the region.
Initially, the fleet will consist of six aircraft integrated gradually over 18 months. Within three years, SUA plans to expand its fleet to ten aircraft, generating 300 direct jobs and 1,500 indirect jobs in Uruguay. This growth aligns with the sector’s sustained expansion in the region.
Projects and Strategic Alliances
Beyond passenger transportation, SUA has ambitious goals. It aims to establish the first Airbus A220 maintenance and operations center in Uruguay and the region. Additionally, the airline plans to install a Category D full-flight simulator for pilot training within the next five years.
The project is supported by the Uruguayan Government and funded largely by Saudi private capital. These efforts align with the modernization initiatives of the National Airport System, which has recently upgraded facilities in Salto, Paysandú, Rivera, and Punta del Este.
However, some administrative steps remain before regular operations can begin. SUA must secure its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), and the Airbus A220 must receive type certification in Uruguay.
About the Founder
Antonio Rama, CEO and founder of SUA, brings significant experience to the venture. Currently a Boeing 777 captain at Qatar Airways, Rama was also the founder of U-Air, a low-cost airline that operated from 2003 to 2005, pioneering the low-cost model in Uruguay and the Southern Cone. His expertise positions him to lead SUA’s ambitious plans.
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